Fine Club outing to La Traviata

Members enjoyed an unforgettable visit to the Royal Opera House for Giuseppe Verdi's La Traviata

Almost 50 members and their guests were most privileged to attend the Farmers Club outing to the Royal Opera House earlier this summer, experiencing what is perceived as THE most popular opera in the operatic canon, Giuseppe Verdi's La Traviata - write Club membersDr David J D Farrow and Mrs Francesca Makins.

Our unforgettable evening started in the Club’s Eastwood Room with a splendid pre-opera supper, carefully created and cooked especially for us and beautifully served. Our sincere and grateful thanks to all involved.

Coach transport took us to the ROH where we had time to wander round, visit the shop or order interval drinks. Our seats were amongst the best in the house, in the central Orchestra Stalls, allowing us to experience the full majesty of this spacious, beautifully designed and lit opera house.

The evening’s anticipation had been heightened by recent press comments (notably in The Times) recounting the British premiere of La Traviata at Her Majesty's Theatre in 1856, when it was condemned as - "a contribution to moral turpitude"!

From the orchestra's opening chords, this revival of Richard Eyre's classic production immediately transported us to 19th century Paris. There were very strong performances in the principal roles of Violetta (Sonya Yoncheva); Alfredo (Ismael Jordi); and Alfredo's father Giorgio (Franco Vassallo), all superbly complimented by the excellent opera house chorus and dancers, and the simply superb opera house orchestra directed by Marc Minkowski.

The production was of the highest order and it was a privilege to be there and experience a wonderful evening of heartbreaking romantic drama, with sensational and truly beautiful melodies by Verdi - THE operatic master. We left the ROH elated.

Such an evening does not happen without exceptional organisational skills, time and energy. We are not only indebted to Lisbeth for all of that, but for staying with us and personally overseeing everything. We and the Club are immensely lucky to have such an invaluable and charming Events Coordinator. On behalf of everyone, Lisbeth, please accept our sincere thanks.